Belongings of the Self: Therapeutic Expression of Human Identities and the Role of National Museums

ABSTRACT Identity is a cumulative experience of self‐expression and collective belonging. While encompassing diverse intersections, identity also comprises individual and social attributes that articulate the inherent uniqueness of each person. The construct of identity therefore transcends the monolith, embracing the various dimensions of our given, chosen, and core selves. Some aspects of identity may relate more to the dominant culture and are recognized as visible attributes. Other attributes may relate intrinsically to our core selves and may not be as visible within the dominant culture. It is imperative that non‐visible attributes find voice and representation in society. National museums can play a vital role in bridging the gap between aspects of our identity that are known and attributes that are not as known within the dominant culture. This paper aims to explore the construct of identity and examine the role of the museum in representing the collective expression of identity.